Summer is almost here and some of you, we won’t name names, have a pair of flip flops or two planning to accompany you into the office. Before you don this accessory, please read our tips! It’s our goal to help you Flaunt It without losing your professional image during the work day. Let’s get ready for summer in style!
We’re going jump right into it with the flip flop issue. It’s thrown around every year and at Élan Image Management we say NO to flip flops! There are too many chic alternatives that will keep you comfortable during your commute and even during the day in the office. Many shops like DSW and Payless have very affordable ballet flats perfect for summer. Instead of getting two pairs of flip flops get a pair of ballet flats and keep your professional image intact this summer and be just as comfortable.
The next issue is short skirts. In the winter months you may be able to get away with a slightly shorter hemline since you are most likely wearing opaque nylons. In the summer when it’s HOT, HOT, HOT it’s important to be even more mindful of our skirt lengths over bare legs. Style your summer skirts to hit at the knee if they are A line or flared or no more than an inch or two above the knee if the style is straight or pencil. Full cotton skirts will still be airy and breathe without showing off more than you bargained for. Both of these styles are from White House Black Market. They are made of natural materials like cotton and silk and hit at the knee. Style them with a button up blouse or sophisticated shell for the office and couple with a light blazer for a more tailored look.
For more tips on finding the perfect A-line skirt read our post on the New 50′s Style Skirt.
We are not letting you off the hook until we discuss bare arms. Depending on your office a sleeveless shirt may be okay; but spaghetti straps, racer backs, one-shoulder, and strapless styles are NEVER office appropriate. Going to the gym or a cocktail party these silhouettes can be very stylish. Save them for just that and invest in professional pieces more suited to your work environment.
This Ann Taylor Pleated Colorblocked Shell is a standout piece for the office. Sophisticated color palette can be worn with black, navy, charcoal, or white bottoms. This shell is very summery yet still covered up. A cap or short sleeve shirt is another option. This Pleat Neck Top, which comes in an assortment of colors, would look great tucked into those two knee length skirts.
Other (we hope!) obvious Don’ts for the office: shorts, distressed jeans, metallic or shiny fabrics, sheer fabrics, overly revealing necklines, exposed bra straps, logo’s Tees, any dress that can pass for a beach cover up, and any item that you don’t feel confident in if you were to bump into your company’s CEO or your most valued client.
When shopping for your summer wardrobe plan out different pieces for the workday and weekend. This time of year you will probably have a bit less crossover than in other seasons. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Another option is to walk with a light jacket so you always look like you mean business.
For more summer dressing tips check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.
